Hopefully by now you all know how much I love many different genres of skincare. African Botanics remains one of my favorite green beauty, eco luxe, green chemistry (or whatever you want to call them) brands. The brand combines natural and synthetic ingredients for effective formulations. They are luxury priced, but also luxury quality. There are a few newbies I hadn’t tried yet, a new launch and a reformulation.
Jardin Sauvage has become my favorite body product they make. This body cream has a medium weight texture. It’s nourishing but not overtly heavy or greasy. It’s quite nourishing especially for the thinner texture as usually I expect this from the more heavy weight body creams. It sinks in well and doesn’t sit on the skin like some nourishing creams. The scent is an earthy jasmine which I like. I like this one better than the Svelte Cream (too tingly for me). I know this is a very luxury body cream, it’s a treat for sure. Details per African Botanics:
This age defying and restorative body cream contains a unique composition of the wild growing Fynbos botanicals, antioxidants, peptides with a reconstructive blend of nutrient-rich Marine extract, Dragon Blood resin and Caffeine to help tone, strengthen and protect skin against future damage while replenishing moisture. This fast-absorbing formula is powered by Mango butter, plant-derived Squalane and botanical oils including Marula, Rosehip, Baobab and Kalahari Melon that immediately moisturize, strengthen and soften the skin. This rich body cream is also packed with Omegas 3, 6, 7 & 9 and is rich in Vitamins A, B3, C and E. Wild Cape May is mixed with luscious Rose, Jasmine and Ravensara to create a scent reminiscent of a wild garden in full bloom. The addition of Lime and the grounding Vetiver known as the “oil of tranquility” creates a mysterious, exotic and complex aroma which helps calm and center your mind.
Ingredients
Aqua (Water), Butyrospermum Parkii ( Shea Butter), Cetyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Vitis Vinifera (Grape)* Seed Oil, Rosa Centifolia (Rose)* Flower Oil, Squalane, Jasmine Officinale (Jasmine)* Oil, Glycerin, Mangifera Indica (Mango)* Seed Butter, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Arnica Cordifolia Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Extract, Sambucus Nigra (Elder Tree) Extract, Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Extract, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract, Anacyclus Pyrethrum (Pellitory) Extract, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Ravensara Leaf Oil, Citrillus Lanatus (Kalahari Melon) Seed Oil, Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula)** Seed Oil, Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Kigelia Africana Fruit Extract**, Propanediol, Caffeine, Myrothamus Flabellifolius (Resurrection)* Plant Oil, Resveratrol, Coleonema Album(Cape May)** Oil, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil, Rosa Mosqueta (Rosehip) Fruit Oil, Aspalathus Linearis (Rooibos)* Tea Extract, Cyclopia Genistoides (Honeybush)* Leaf Extract, Adansonia Digitata (Baobab)** Oil, Calendula Officinalis Flower Oil, Fucus Vesiculosis (Seaweed) Extract, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Croton Lechleri (Dragons Blood) Resin Extract, Harpagophytum Procumbens (Devils Claw)* Root Extract, SodiumAscorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C), Vetiveris Zizanoides (Vetivert) Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol.
Pure Marula Cleansing Oil is not new for me and I’ve talked about it before. I just have it in my life again and for anyone who’s never seen it I’ll do a quick overview because it’s a really yummy product. Think gel oil, but not balm, more gel textured cleanser. It smells like a creamsicle. It removes makeup as it is an oil based cleanser but it does emulsify and rinse clean. It’s fine for oily skin as well it’s not a heavy oil based cleanser. I think everyone should b e able to use this just fine. I know they say it has a sandalwood scent but honestly it smells like creamsicle to me. I love it as a morning cleanser but I’ve also used it as a first night cleanse. Details per African Botanics:
An antioxidant and omega-rich cleansing oil that has a silky gel-to-oil texture with anti-inflammatory and skin-calming properties. Designed for all skin types including dry, problematic, inflamed and sensitive. Deeply purifies, dissolves make-up, pollution, surface impurities, skin congestion and SPF without causing irritation or skin dehydration whilst maintaining skin’s natural protective barrier. Corrects the skin’s natural pH balance and gently exfoliates with AHA concentration of (Lactic, Glycolic, Tartaric and Malic Acids) while refining pores. Leaves skin feeling clean, supple, smooth and refreshed with refined clarity ready for care.
Ingredients
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Isoamyl Laurate, Moringa** Oleifera Seed Oil, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Silica, Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula)** Seed Oil, Citrus Paradisi (Pink Grapefruit) Seed Oil, Limonene*, Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil, Aqua, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Vaccinium Myrtillus (Bilberry) Fruit Extract, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil, Adansonia Digitata (Baobab)** Oil, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Glycine Soja Oil, Parfum (Natural)*, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Anthemis Nobilis (Roman Chamomile) Flower Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract.
I’ve never actually tried the Neroli Infused Marula Oil and oh she is quite divine. I love the minimalist bottle plus I love neroli so this is one of those mood boosting products for me. Details per African Botanics:
To restore skin’s functions and perfect equilibrium this lightweight, balancing face oil combines a fresh Neroli infusion obtained through traditional methods of enfleurage that macerates the aromatic blossoms for many weeks in antioxidant-rich Marula Oil to help visibly minimize pores, brighten, target redness and soothe while protecting skin from oxidative damage caused by pollution, lifestyle and sun without clogging pores. Hand-harvested during the peak of the midday sun, precious white Neroli blossoms reveal skin rejuvenating benefits and are well renowned for their calming and skin balancing properties. Perfect for skin depleted from stressors like too much sun, cold or travel.
Ingredients
Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula) Seed Oil**, Citrus Aurantium (Neroli) Flower Extract, Parfum (Natural)*, Linalool*, Benzyl Alcohol*, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Citronellol*, Hexyl Cinnamal*, Hydroxycitronellal*.
The oil is really just marula oil and neroli flower extract and it has natural fragrance. Marula oil is a richer oil in general. It’s lipid profile is high in omega-9 fatty acids and oleic acid. That makes it great for dry skin because it’s highly nourishing. Marula oil varies based on how it’s sourced, I’ve seen some be heavier and some are lighter texture wise. In general though marula is great for drier skin due to it’s richer moisture content. Marula has a fruity scent but it’s also warm and nutty. Marula oil has amino acids L-arginine and glutamic acid (hydrating, anti-aging), fatty acids palmitic, stearic, oleic, and myristic acids (emollient, moisturizing) plus antioxidants like phenolic compounds, vitamins E and C. Neroli tends to be orange floral but with a slightly earthy undertone, the scent helps reduce anxiety and stress with it’s calming and uplifting scent. Neroli is extracted from parts of the bitter orange tree. It has antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Neroli is rejuvenating-it gives a glow and helps with elasticity. Neroli also has astringent properties so it helps balance sebum and tones.
This oil in particular from African Botanics is nourishing with a lighter texture. I agree it’s perfect for skin needing a rejuvenating boost or one that’s depleted from lipids from travel or another reason. It’s not really heavy or greasy and it does sink in versus sit on top the skin, even with the more nourishing profile. The smell is absolute heaven. It’s pure sunshine in a bottle.
Silver Rescue Cream is their newest launch. It’s their first unscented and essential oil free product designed for soothing, reactive and sensitive skin. Details per African Botanics:
Silver Rescue Cream harnesses the soothing and anti-inflammatory properties of full-spectrum CBD (Cannabis Sativa Leaf extract) and the vital power of Colloidal Silver, known for its anti-microbial and healing properties. Working together they help reduce redness, inflammation, and scarring while improving skin barrier function and relieving the signs of skin stress. This unique cream helps calm and revive skin with an extraordinary blend of protective medicinal plants (Resurrection plant and Devil’s Claw), rich in glycosides, Phytosterols, Flavonoids, Trehalose sugar, polysaccharides and arbutin which aid skin regeneration and rapid hydration, resulting in minimal transepidermal water loss. Highly concentrated moisturizing ingredients like the Baobab fruit, Vitamin E, Squalane, Marula Oil, Rosehip and Marigold extract help protect the skin and reduce skin reactivity and redness. Their soothing, restructuring and lipid-restoring properties strengthen the skin, improving its quality and reducing sensitivity. Formulated for sensitive skin and all skin types temporarily irritated by modern environmental conditions including pollution, stress, extreme weather patterns and non-invasive procedures.
Ingredients
Aqua (Water), Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Butyrospermum Parkii, Cannabis Sativa Leaf (Full Spectrum CBD) Extract, Adansonia Digitata (Baobab)* Fruit Extract*, Propanediol, Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Squalane, Glycerin (Vegetable), Myrothamus Flabellifolius (Resurrection) Plant, Hyaluronic Acid, Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula)* Seed Oil, Aspalathus Linearis (Rooibos) Tea Extract, Rosa Moschata (Rosehip) Seed Oil, Bulbine Frutescens Leaf Extract, Colloidal Silver, Calendula Officinalis (Marigold) Flower Extract, Harpagophytum Procumbens (Devil’s Claw)* Root Extract, Propanediol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin.
Key Ingredients
- Cannabis Sativa Leaf Our Full Spectrum CBD / Cannabidiol extract is grown naturally from EU-certified strains of hemp without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Only the aerial parts are used to prepare this full-spectrum extract. Studies have shown that CBD can give the skin a more youthful appearance, thanks to its inflammation-fighting properties. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of cannabinoids help to reduce puffiness, swelling, and discomfort. The compounds in cannabis have also been shown to be helpful in fighting acne. Some recent findings suggest that CBD has the potential to decrease excessive sebum production and sebocyte proliferation as well as slowing down other triggers of acne*.
- Colloidal Silver Used topically, it has strong antibacterial properties that help combat acne and blemish infections all while calming inflammation. The colloidal silver works to target wrinkles, blemishes, and environmental stress while helping regulate skin flora and provide anti-inflammatory properties*.
- Resurrection Plant A clinically proven solution for the prevention of dermal water loss, dry dull skin, epithelial cell mortality and visible wrinkling. It is rich in polysaccharides, polyphenols and Trehalose sugar molecules which address multiple signs of aging: dehydration, fine lines, uneven texture. By enhancing moisture retention, this intensive bio-extract nourishes the skin cells and contributes to skin regeneration*.
- Harpagophytum procumbens Devil’s Claw, targeted at relieving skin redness, inflammation and puffiness and restoring youthful vital skin. The compounds in Devil’s Claw promote calming of the skin through the inhibition of lipopolysaccharide inducible nitric oxide (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression via nuclear factor kappaB (NF- KB) suppression. Devil’s Claw also aids skin regeneration resulting in minimal transepidermal water loss, leaving skin moisturized. Clinical trials also show a significant reduction in skin redness immediately after application of this remarkable extract*.
- Tocopherol Pure Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals, moisturize skin and improve overall tone and texture.*
- Rosehip Rich in vitamin A and C, which are necessary for the production of collagen*.
- Squalane An oil-soluble antioxidant, it works with other antioxidants in skin to neutralize damaging oxygen molecules generated when skin is exposed to UV light. It is a mega-hydrator that acts as a barrier to keep moisture locked in to keep skin soft, supple and plump for longer*.
- Rooibos Rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, phenolic acids, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides. Rooibos has been thoroughly researched as an active free-radical scavenger and is a source of alpha hydroxy acid, copper, zinc, magnesium and vitamin D*.
- Marula Oil Nourishes, soothes redness, maintains hydration, and leaves the skin feeling exceptionally soft*.
- Baobab Fruit extract is an emollient and cell nutrition enhancer to help promote soft smooth skin. It works by supplying the skin with essential vitamins and minerals and protects the skin from harmful radiation. The rich cocktail of vitamins, amino acids, critical anti-oxidants, and minerals provides the skin with vital nutrition for maintaining a youthful radiance*.
- Bulbine frutescens A unique plant with incredible healing, soothing and moisturizing qualities. It enables the restoration of skin barrier function, reducing sensitization and improving moisture retention*.
*Test performed on ingredient
Something I always wanted from green beauty brands is a cream or product for times when I’m sensitive. I have rosacea and while it doesn’t rule my life like it can for many, at times I want a product that’s going to just be soothing and comforting versus active ingredient focused based. Not saying this cream doesn’t have active ingredients as they all have a purpose, but free of vitamin C, retinoids, acids and things like fragrance and essential oils that can irritate more sensitive skin. It’s nice to have that kind of product as even those without sensitive skin can experience irritation at any time. The texture of this cream is medium to lighter weight. It’s nourishing but sinks into the skin fairly quickly, never heavy or greasy feeling. In the winter time I thought it was a great day cream and during the summer this would work at night for me. During winter nights I likely need to use this in conjunction with a heavier balm as it’s not as lipid heavy as some creams.
This cream has a few oils like marula, grape seed, squalane and rosehip plus shea butter. It’s got antioxidants extracts rooibos, baobab fruit and vitamin E. Vitamin E is also soothing. Colloidal silver can help with acne from it’s antimicrobial properties and inflammation. I know we’re not allowed to say CBD is soothing or anti-inflammatory in skincare but I have found it does seem to help soothe from the products I’ve tried it in, It’s new and there’s definitely not a huge amount of studies with the effects in skincare but I expect that to hopefully expand one day and we’ll get more research. This cream has a few other plant extracts they list for soothing or anti-inflammatory properties like Devil’s Claw. Resurrection plant is also really interesting. Have you seen them come back to life from a dessicated state? It’s fun to google.
Overall as a formulation this cream is light enough to be able to used by even less dry skin. At times I see the soothing products especially creams made more for dry skin people and less for oily, combo and acne prone skin. I think a wide variety could use this cream as the texture is nice and light yet still nourishing enough. I found the formulation soothing and calming when I used it. As I said earlier it’s nice to have that soothing product on hand that’s free of EOs and fragrance when you just want that comforting layer to help soothe irritation. I also love the sparkly slim bottle instead of a jar. Fits nicely in the medicine cabinet.
So you know how much I love the original Fleurs d’Afrique Intensive Recovery Cream. I listed it as a top 3 favorite for night creams a while back (HERE). It’s been revamped and comes in a new package. Details per African Botanics:
Discover a new realm of science-based skincare recovery designed to resist internal and external stressors. In order to support the skin’s natural barrier function as effectively as possible, we have designed our high-performance Fleurs d’Afrique Intensive Recovery Cream with enhanced molecular and biotech actives. The enveloping, lightweight texture and adaptogenic botanicals are boosted by age-defying ingredients: Ceramides, Detox System Ferment, and an Anti-Aging Matrix for Regeneration.
The Intensive Recovery Cream features biomimetic Ceramides that help restore skin’s density and bounce, while profoundly improving texture and luminosity. Detox System Ferment boosts detoxification and longevity at the cellular level, resulting in overall complexion radiance. Inspired by advances in regenerative medicine, a firming Anti-Aging Matrix stimulates collagen and empowers skin to regain firmness and tone. The result: Fewer signs of visible aging and redefined facial contours.
The second generation of cutting-edge ingredients includes a sustainably grown Blue Marine Micro Algae and a high concentration of plant peptides which encourage cell renewal, while plumping and protecting the complexion. Distinct African Oil Complex™ ensures immediate delivery of youth-preserving essential fatty acid matrix, and moisturizing botanicals fade and fight the signs of aging skin: fine lines and wrinkles, blemishes, dark spots, hormonal imbalances, inflammation, redness, dryness and sagging. An infusion of nocturnal flowers from ancient Baobab trees and hand-picked “Queen of the Night” Jasmine Grandiflorum deliver a sensorial finishing touch. Intensive Recovery Cream helps shields against inflammation, oxidation, air pollution and dry climates, and is recommended especially for hormonal, mature, unbalanced, seborrheic and sensitive skin types.
Ingredients
Aqua (Water), Butyrospermum Parkii, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Hydrolyzed Soybean Fiber, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Hydrolyzed Millet, Hydrolyzed Pea, Ceramides, Hydrolyzed Candida Saitoana Extract, Helichrysum Stoechas Extract, Verbena officinalis Extract, Jasminum Grandiflorum Flower Oil, Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Centella Asiatica Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Glycine Soja Protein, Oxidoreductases, Ubiquinone, Myrothamus Flabellifolius Plant, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Glycol Distearate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane Benzimidazole (Diamond) Copolymer, Centella Asiatica Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Trichilia Emetica* Seed Butter, Sclerocarya Birrea* Seed Oil, Schinziophyton Rautanenii* Seed Oil, Cyclopia Genistoides Leaf Extract, Bulbinella Nutens Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Extract, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cylindrotheca Fusiformis Extract, Copper Sulphate, Niacinamide, Anthemis Nobilis Oil, Rosa Mosqueta Fruit Oil, Caffein, Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C), Adansonia Digitata*, Arnica Cordifolia (Arnica) Extract, Aspalathus Linearis (Rooibos) Tea Extract, Kigelia Africana* Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citrus Bergamia (Bergamot) Extract, Aloe Ferox (Aloe)* Leaf Extract, Resveratrol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Geraniol, Linalool, Limonene, Benzyl Benzoate, Eugenol.
Key Ingredients
- Ceramides Reinforce skin’s barrier and increase hydration, giving you plumper, smoother, firmer-feeling skin with fewer visible lines and wrinkles, as well as fewer signs of sensitivity*.
- Detox System Ferment (Candida Saitoana) A detoxifying extract rich in α-glucans from fungus Candida saitoana, obtained by fermentation biotechnology. This active boosts the cell autophagy and reinforces cell detoxification thus improving cell and tissue longevity. In vivo testing demonstrates improvement the micro-relief and the overall complexion radiance and uniformity*.
- Anti-Aging Matrix (Helichrysum Stoechas stem cells) Rich in oligosaccharides, this firming active regenerates the extra-cellular matrix by stimulating the synthesis of periostin (protein) which slows down over time. The structure of collagen fibers is regenerated and dermal tissue is consolidated. The skin regains firmness and tone, wrinkles are reduced*.
- Cylindrotheca Fusiformis Blue Marine Micro-algae obtained by a sophisticated method of culture and extraction of microorganisms using a photo-bioreactor with a completely sustainable process. It has a powerful anti-wrinkle effect while stimulating cellular proliferation in the dermis and production of structural proteins by fibroblasts. Clinically, it has been proven to visibly decrease wrinkle depth and volume and dramatically improve elasticity, hydration and softness of the skin*.
- Oxidoreductase Large group of enzymes that block oxygen in different forms from generating environmental damage*.
- Resveratrol Fights free-radical damage with its antioxidant power, minimizing the signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation*.
- Coenzyme Q10 Helps improve the appearance of aging or UV-exposed skin*.
- Centella Asiatica Rich in amino acids, beta carotene, fatty acids, and numerous potent phyto-chemicals. Extracts have been found to calm inflammation, speed wound healing, stimulate new cell growth, build collagen, and improve circulation*.
- Resurrection Plant Rich in polysaccharides, polyphenols and Trehalose sugar molecules address multiple signs of aging: dehydration, fine lines, uneven texture. By enhancing moisture retention, this intensive bio-extract nourishes the skin cells and contributes to skin regeneration*.
- Ascorbyl Palmitate Stable and non-acidic form of vitamin C that is effective as an antioxidant. Ascorbyl palmitate is particularly effective at reducing environmental damage*.
- Panthenol Pro-Vitamin B5 acts as an emollient and lubricant. Panthenol modifies itself biochemically to produce the d-pantothenic acid, essential for a normal tissue function and cellular regeneration*.
- Niacinamide Vitamin B3 refines the look of pores, reduces the appearance of discoloration, improves skin resilience, and visibly brightens and fights dullness for a radiant, even-looking skin tone*.
- Marula Oil Nourishes, soothes redness, maintains hydration, and leaves the skin feeling exceptionally soft*.
- Honeybush Active compound in Honeybush, mangiferin, exhibits anti-aging activity against UVB-induced damage. It has been shown to reduce damage to collagen caused by UVB radiation in clinical studies. Honeybush provides antioxidant and photo-protective properties while soothing skin irritations and reducing redness*.
- Rooibos Rich in polypehnols, flavonoids, phenolic acids, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides. Rooibos has been thoroughly researched as an active free-radical scavenger and is a source of alpha hydroxy acid, copper, zinc, magnesium and vitamin D*.
* Test performed on ingredient
So I’ve already reviewed this cream HERE. The packaging is no longer glass it’s plastic with a lightweight feel but cool shape. I like the new shape of the jar. The old black jar used to have the black dye come off a little around the rim from the cream ingredients (I think), so I’m guessing that’s why it’s in plastic now. To keep the black matte color but not have that packaging side effect. Doesn’t bug me that it’s not in glass though I know it will get brought up as it’s a high luxury priced cream and I know many want their luxury stuff in glass. The new version is still a heavier weight cream but it’s slightly less rich feeling than the original. I still wouldn’t call the oily skin friendly it’s a bit too emollient. This new texture sinks in a little faster/easier. This is great for combo to drier skin. The scent is still jasmine with a slightly earthy base.
This is really like a treatment anti-aging cream. Think of it for the person who wants firming and plumping, reduction of lines and wrinkles, collagen stimulation, increase in tone and elasticity, encourage cellular renewal plus help improve texture and luminosity. If you just want a cream just to moisturize this probably isn’t for you. It’s expensive and I understand not everyone wants a treatment cream. I always hesitate to put age limits or whatever on products, but those who will enjoy this the cream most are likely 35+ and love luxury green beauty or eco luxe. It’s for you if the price tag isn’t an issue and you want an anti-aging cream that combines green beauty with modern technology. The cream does what it says. It helps with firming, lifting, plumping, tone, texture, elasticity, cellular renewal and general anti-aging concerns. I use it and my skin just feels really plump and revitalized. I deal more with the loss of elasticity and firmness and I like creams that help with that because sometimes it’s nice to have that luxury cream you just apply as a ritual and feel like a million bucks. It gives you a pleasurable experience that you sometimes don’t get from a basic cream. Self care comes in all forms. Bottom line it feels amazing on the skin.
*Products gifted from the brand but all thoughts are my own. I bought my first jar of Fleurs d’Afrique Cream & Cleansing Oil as well as many product from the brand.
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